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Take Note of These Senior Cat Symptoms

May 1, 2015

Your ten-year-old tabby Seymour could be a senior citizen poster cat. This feisty feline housemate has kept his handsome good looks, and he has considerable energy for attacking his cat toys and tormenting your dog. Although Seymour’s still in good health, he’s at risk for age-linked medical conditions that might start with odd symptoms. Fortunately, your Marietta veterinarian can diagnose your cat’s health problems and provide prompt treatment.

Nutrition and Weight Hiccups

Seymour has always been an exercise fanatic. Every day, he furiously batted his cat toys and ran madly through your house in pursuit of unknown prey. For variety, he chased a laser wand around the room. These consistent workouts, plus his nutritionally balanced diet, have helped him to maintain a healthy weight.

However, maybe he has recently been leaving substantial food in his bowl. Or, perhaps his appetite is normal, but he has obviously lost weight. Either way, something’s a little unusual. Take him to the vet for a physical exam and expert nutritional guidance.

Urinary and Intestinal Red Flags

Your cat’s litter box habits have been the envy of the neighborhood. He has never urinated outside the box, and he doesn’t scratch litter scraps onto the laundry room floor. However, this week he left two stinky puddles on your kitchen tile. His water consumption habits have also changed. Don’t allow these symptoms to worsen – take him to the vet quickly.

Your reliable cat has also demonstrated exceptional defecation behaviors. He even covers the deposits so they’re less objectionable. However, this week he has experienced several episodes of horrible-smelling diarrhea. You don’t want him to become dehydrated, so get him to the vet immediately.

Strange Anti-Social Behavior

Super-social Seymour loves his daily brushing and ear-scratching sessions. However, he has recently been running away when you approach him. You’ve even seen him hissing at familiar family members. Ask the vet if your feline housemate’s actions might indicate a developing medical or behavioral problem.